Butterfield dial for latitudes 40°-52° North. Standard three-scale dial (see related terms) except for the following details:-

The hour-plate is oval shaped. The first scale is oval shaped and the second and third scales are both octagonal. There is a central circular lake scene and the dial-plate has two legs to aid in its support. Featured within the compass is an eight-point rose with the cardinal points named in French. North is further marked by a fleur-de-lys. A blued needle (possibly a replacement), with an arrowhead indicating South [sic], is surmounted by a brass pyramidal pivot. The gnomon is adjustable for latitudes 40°-[52°]. The decoration incorporates a squirrel on one side and a mythical beast on the other. The compass base is engraved with various mathematical instruments including an armillary sphere, a sector, a pair of dividers, a protractor, a sundial plate, a carpenter's square and a rule. The reverse of the dial-plate is occupied by a table of latitudes for European towns and cities primarily in France.

This is a beautifully engraved instrument with fine illustrations on both the front and back. The scene in the centre of the front with its lake, boat, mountains, trees and chateau is rather reminiscent of willow pattern. The large number of towns listed from the South of France suggests that the original owner came from that region or that the dial was made for sale there. On the reverse side it is signed 'Pierre Seuin AParis'.

For more information regarding this dial please refer to the OUP & NMM catalogue, 'Sundials at Greenwich'.